IAA SPOTLIGHT: GET TO KNOW – A.REM – ILLINOIS’ HOTTEST STAR!

A.REM: I was born in Freeport IL, on Sept. 19 1986. I was raised in Lanark IL, Mt. Carroll IL, and Freeport IL.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: What is your music background?

A.REM: I have been traveling around performing at shows for almost 2 years now. I have been writing and recording my own music since I was 16. I just stared getting back into music and treating it as an occupation and not just a hobby for over 3 years now. I wrote and recorded my whole album “Calm Before The Storm” myself and produced ¾ of it myself with help from my producer Sheist T.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: Why do you want to record and release your own music?

A.REM: Music is my therapy, my way to relax. It’s one of the best ways for me to relieve stress. Nothing is more enjoyable to me then putting my head phones on, throwing on a beat, grab my pen and paper and just go. When I am in my zone its my way of escaping from everything else that is going on at the time and just vent. It’s my way to get my story out there and let people know who I really am, because a lot of people got it twisted.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: What are your songs about?

A.REM: My songs are always about my personal experiences. The things that I do or the situations I have been in. I write about just my life in general. The real life I live, no fake shit, no lies, no fakin, no bullshit, just me. If I spit it, I live it.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: Who are your musical influences?

A.REM: Growing up, when I first fell in love with hip-hop I was all about Notorious BIG. I believe it was around 1995 and I was 9 years old. In my personal opinion BIG is the greatest of all time. Then I started listening to Fabolous, DMX, and Eminem a lot. But as soon as 50 Cent and G-Unit came out, it was game over for me. “Get Rich or Die Tryin” is my favorite album of all time. Since G-Unit I have gravitated away from rap music and more towards Hip-Hop/R&B. Now the artist that you will catch me listening to, that inspire or influence me are Drake, Chris Brown, August Alsina, Kid Ink, Trey Songz, Meek Mill and Tyga.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: How would you describe your music to people?

A.REM: When listening to my album “Calm Before The Storm” it’s just like a breath of fresh air. It’s just real life shit. I try to make music that people can relate to. And I always try to stay positive and be a good influence for my listeners. I feel like this project was one that you can just kick back, grab a cold drink, throw my cd in and listen to the whole thing from start to finish, and then maybe start it over again, lol.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: What makes you stand out from other artists?

A.REM: I really don’t feel that there is anyone like me in the industry right now. But I think that one thing that will be very beneficial to my music career is my versatility as an artist. I feel that I can jump on a track with almost any Hip-Hop, R&B, Rap or Pop artist in the country and not only hold my own, but produce a hit. Whether it be Drake, August Alsina, Bruno Mars, Alicia Keys, Justin Timberlake, Tyga, Chris Brown, Rick Ross, or Waka Flocka, I can work with anyone on a track and to many different types of songs. And I love making different music. Nobody wants to listen to an album where every song sounds the same.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: Tell us about one of the hardest challenges you had to face in your music career and how did you overcome?

A.REM: I used to be nervous years ago to get on stage and perform in front of a crowd. Now I cant wait to perform and the more people the better. I guess I just over came all my nerves and fears by continuing to do shows more and more. I build a comfort zone and once I started getting the fan support everywhere I go, it builds a level of confidence. Now when I perform, I just get lost in that zone and have fun and feed of off the energy of the crowd. If the crowd sleepin, I wake um up, and give them something to remember. Now the only thing holding me back is finances and the knowledge on the steps to take to make it big and blow up in the industry. I feel I have everything that it takes to be great.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: What are some upcoming projects you are currently working on?

A.REM: I just released my mixtape “Calm Before The Storm” June 7, 2014, and I am now just doing shows and promoting the mixtape. I have my birthday party coming up in Lanark IL, with Bo Deal of Bricksquad on Sept 19th that I will be performing at, and then on Sept 27th I am bringing Troy Ave from Grand Hustle out to Iowa City for a show, that I will also be performing at. As far as music, I have been working on a few singles for a later project. I am looking to release another mixtape in early 2015, but mainly focusing on promoting.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: What are your career goals? Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A.REM: My motivation now comes from seeing the cover of the XXL freshman dozen of 2014. My goal is to make the cover of the 2015 freshman class. If not 2015 then I feel I need to push even harder for 2016 cover. It’s not an easy task by any means but I feel that with my talent and my work ethic that anything is possible. As far as 10 years from now, I hope to be still making music and helping out all the younger generation to achieve their dream. I would like to have a position in the game similar to Rick Ross. I admire what he has done with his career and what he has done with MMG. I hope to someday have as powerful and successful of an empire as him.

IAA INDUSTRY NEWS: How can your fans access your music and contact you?

142 COMMENTS

Can’t wait to see him go big!! Both shows I been too he killed it! He does everything possible to get to know his fans and make then feel welcome and shows how much he appreciates everybody coming out<3

A.Rem has got to be the hottest artist around ! His music is awesome. He has a passion for it & it’s real-you can tell by the lyrics in the song & you can just feel it when your listening! He’s come such along way since he started and I NEVER see him stopping ! Can’t wait to see where you go!!!! Keep doin your thing ! I know you’ll make it to the “tippy-top”

Been followin u from the start. Your headed to the top now. U got a big local fan base now just need help getting to the national stage. U be rockin the stage. Can’t wait to hear new shit. Your song with kirko is hot

hey that is pretty cool that someone that I have associated with is making it big and that inspires me more to do harder in my digital media class because I do film in that kind of stuff also and your videos do inspire me letting me know someone from this area can become something big and it also helps that you always keep it 100 I know you’re not fake rap this is stuff that you have lived and I just sayin going strong rolling down the street with AK 47 going to rob banks and shit like some of these fake rappers so from the next town over man keep up the good work and keep representing 815 bud

I’m glad to say I’ve noticed your progression through-out the last 3 cds. One hell of an artist and a hell of a guy. Hope nothing for the best for you. You put in the work, one day you will get there. Keep digging. Salute

Keep doin ya thing A.Rem, i can tell music is your passion n dream. Its good to see you in the spotlight like u deserve to be. Hope nuthin but the best for u, on your music career n moves u decide to make. Hope to see u at the top soon.

I remember you in grade school and it amazes me on the person you’ve become. Your music is hott and you’ve come a long way from the first CD you made in high school. Now is you’re time to shine from the title of you’re high school album all eyes are on you. Keep doing big things

Great article! Been knowing/following A Rem from the start! He puts his heart and sole into his music. He is one of the most dedicated people I know and when he sets his mind to it there is not a goal he cannot achieve. For that I salute and can only go to the top from here.

ARem is one of the next big things to come out of the 815 he is a success for alot of people that are in that area they have needed something or someone to bring some excitement to them and ARem has done just that not only with his music but also the shows and opportunities he has brought to that area not only for him but a lot of other talented people and also giving people something to believe in and look forward to . I think it is just a matter of time before everyone knows ARem keep dreaming big and going after it Aaron !! This is just the start

Wow! Reading all of these comments almost brought tears to my eyes. Its an amazing feeling and I am truly blessed to have so many amazing people that support my music and everything I do. I could never do it without you guys. Your support gives me the strength to keep going and push harder! You don’t even understand how much I truly appreciate everyone’s support. Thank you all so much! 815!!!

Aaron is amazing at what he does! He puts on an awesome show and everybody loves him. I know he will make it big! His passion for music is like no other!!!! He definitely has an enormous amount of talent! My teenage son has been listening to his most recent album non stop! He’s completely obsessed! He tells me “mom, his music is better than some of these other rappers that make millions”! We can’t wait until you make it to the top, A.REM!!!

I love everything about it…… From your music to the realness of this article! You do and always will stand out from the rest! I agree that you can hang with anyone in the game, you write your own music, and you tell your own story that’s what people wanna hear….. Real shit! You deserve it all and I’ll back you every step of the way!! Your newest single is HOT btw……She goin she goin she goin!

You are also such an ispiration to my son and I know you strive for that, keep being a positive role model and set the bar high for our youth and upcoming artists! With your hustle and work ethic the sky is the limit and I know you’re going to do big things in the music industry! #youtherealmvp

I love A.REM’S music ! No song is the same & he speaks of truth. I see him going far in the music industry because of the truths he tells. It’s very refreshing to hear. I think his music it timeless and his sound is definitely unique and for that I’m a fan! Keep keeping on A.Rem & keep going hard…UNSTOPPABLE!
All love!

This guy is great!!!!! He is dedicated, hard working, and loves what he does!!!! He is a great artist and he is always loyal to his fans!!!! I love his music and he is an inspiration! He is doing big things and I support his music and everything he does! There should be more artists out there like him 🙂

It takes a lot of strong will, determination, work ethic and heart to commit yourself to music and follow your dreams. A. Rem, you’ve got it all – and then some! True musicians write and perform from the depths of their soul, which is what makes your music and performances so powerful. Keep it up. Never quit. You’re on your way to the BIG time!

Arems music in very inspiring, truthful, and just real its not all” avout big booty hoes and stuff like that he has a vision and he puts it out there for all of us to see! I listen to his music pretty much everyday in my car. Hes a good guy with a goal, to keep moving foward, keep fighting and just keep doing his thang! Hes determined and i think thats best quality to have when hes moving up like he is… keep it arem you the shit!

I’m so proud of Aaron! His natural ability to write lyrics and produce his own music is amazing! Watching him move forward with his music career makes me very happy! I listen to his cd everyday and can’t wait for the next one!

Hey Dude! You sure have chosen a tough career! But that’s the thing about dreams, the good ones always make for the hardest work. Stay focused and remember that even when we were learning to walk, we fell down a lot, but we always got back up. The music business is a huge learning curve. If you stumble somewhere along the way, just keep getting back up and sing on!! Very cool beans, A.Rem.

A.Rem is guna be in the next generation of names know world wide. Amazing artist, great person, honest and true to everyone. His music is his passion and he’s guna go wherever he wants to take it. Great job Aaron!

A.Rem is an outstanding person. It’s great seeing someone local going big. You know is music is real and comes from his heart. Keep pouring your heart into and you will be at the top. Best of luck A. REM!!!

I LOVE A.Rem music! I have both cd’s and listen to them daily! Iv been to one show and it was amazing! I was pretty upset i couldn’t make it to the big birthday bash so hopefully there will be another show soon so I can get my A. Rem fix! He sings about stuff that other people can relate to! Its great to see someone from a small town doing something so good! He’s for sure going somewhere! I will always be an A. Rem supporter keep it up!!!

A.Rem does a Good job of talking about real life problems and issues he’s facing in his life in his lyric’s. I feel like he stays true to himself and doesn’t try to portrait and Image like many other Artist and Musicians do that come off “Fake” or trying to hard to be something they are not.. Seems to me he’s just talking about his life and what he know’s. I can appreciate the positive message and motivational message in most of his music I’ve heard. Imma’ keep it #trill
Ihaven’t heard alot of A.Rem’s music but What I have heard has been good. Keep Grinding , Keep staying motivated and #Positive. Keep putting on for Illinois and Wisconsin / MidWest Region. #Salute

# Team A.REM for life!!!! A.Rem truly inspires me, hes a great artist and puts his heart and soul into his music. I know A.Rem on a personal level as well and know that hes presuing his dreams and he truly has a passion, and desire to go to the top. your music is amazing, i can totaly relate. I love all of your songs!! Ur the nxt big thing, and you dezerve it all!!!! 😉

It’s soo good to see how motivated and driven you are! Both of those traits will get you veryy far in the music industry or any business for that matter! I was at your birthday bash and i had a blastt! I can tell you actually care about your fans compared to other artist, you were walking around talking to all of us! It was a good time and i’d definatly go to another show of yours! Keep up the good work and continue to stay positive, you will go far !!

When you walk into one of his shows and see him walking around and talking to his fans. It shows that he cares a lot about his fan base. He shows that failing isn’t an option for him and that he’s not going to give up on his dream in life. He has inspired me personally.

A.Rem I am so proud of you!! You have come a long way from rapping to the DQ beat and I cant wait to see how far you go! I am positive it will be all the way you the top n I’ll be supporting you the whole way. Keep doing your thing n as soon as the the world gets a taste of you they’l be addicted!!

I’ve only seen this guy perform live once, but just from that I can tell how amazing he is. He does anything and everything he can during his performance to get the audience involved and he makes music that you can actually dance too and relate too!. He actually took the time to talk to me after his did his thing on stage. Its nice to know he cares about his fans feedback. A Rem seems like a genuine guy! He is the next best thing!

Hard work for what you love isn’t hard work! “Hold up wow, look at me now” Man keep it up! Fan support will only get stronger as you grow, they will grow with you. As you know life is short, do what you love, you are and it shows.

a rem is one tight rapper i got is first CD and it was cool as ever i listened to it for ever it i also like the song god damn and i betcha. he will be on the top one day. A.rem is better then any rapper!.

I’ve been listening to A. Rem since the beginning of the summer and his music is amazing. I haven’t made it to a show yet but I would like to me. You are doing great with ur music and will be going somewhere with it. Can’t wait to hear more music from you

Thank you guys for all the love and positive feedback! It really means a lot to me. Please have your friends check out the interview and leave me a comment. Its greatly appreciated! Thanks again – A.Rem

A.Rem in my opinion is one of the fastest growing artist around and the reason he is becoming so well known is because he goes past the stereo type artist. His music hits home and tells a story. Keep up the good work! Can’t wait to hear your songs on the radio and music videos on tv! It was a pleasure working with you on one of your videos and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!

I love to hear people speak real shit -“life” instead of all the ridiculous stuff you hear most of the time. That’s why I listen to A.Rem. stays true to himself and his life. A quality not found often.. Keep up the good work bro…

Just a big shout out to my boy A. REM. It’s been amazing watching you grow from a man who listens to hip hop to a man who delivers your interpretation of hip hop on stage. Bro I look forward to seeing where you end up next. Reach for the stars.

A fukkin rem big ups to u bro i been wit nd around u since your first solo mixtape success or death.p u kno how we rockin its been a pleasure nd honor workin wit u from music to doin shows to jus chillin nd talkin shyt nd way our next moves gon be. Im proud of u to see where u started to where u at now. Aint nowhere to go but up from herero like i sed its been me nd u from da start im rockin wit u till da end

I haven’t known him for long, but from what I’ve seen he’s gonna make it big! He drives for what he wants. I listen to his music everyday. One of my faves. Definitely looking forward to his show at Rt. 20! Keep it up A.Rem!

I don’t know how I stumbled on to your interview, or your music, but damn son! You are are absolutely terrible! Like for real yo…straight awful! It’s cool your people have nice things to say about you and shit but damn! You can do a hole lot when you throw money at it, and that’s real shit! I had to look up Lanark, and that’s like a small ass town! And you from there right?! Shit, that place BETTER be packed if it’s in your own small as town! Wake up homey…its cool to dream, but your shit is hip hop heads and lovers worst nightmares! That’s my word

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